Job Announcements

Summer Camp Director

Schenectady, New York

About the Sponsoring Organization: SCM (Schenectady Community Ministries) is a faith-based, non-sectarian, non-profit organization started in 1967 and is an expression and outreach of the faith community. Current priority areas are: (1) food insecurity (hunger and poverty); (2) youth, seniors, and family; (3) diversity and acceptance; and (4) collaborations, partnerships, and advocacyPosition Description:
The Schenectady Community Ministries (SCM) seeks a Summer Camp Director to work from June to August 2017 and direct a six-week program (from July 2 to August 10) for youth aged 7 to 12. The Director will supervise camp counselors who are college or mature high school students. The camp enrolls up to 30 campers, but the number will vary (could be less) so that the ratio of campers to staff is kept at 1:4.
This camp is based upon a successful three-year’s experience, and a curriculum to use or build upon. Camp has been operating from Steinmetz Park, which is on Lenox Road in Schenectady. The park, which has 40+ acres, has many outdoor options, including a Children’s garden and fishing in the lake. On a daily basis the camp operates from 8:30 am (optional breakfast) through lunch (1:00). The camp is in conjunction with Camp Fowler, an inclusive faith based camp. Camp Fowler provides some resources, including training. The curriculum is a mosaic of storytelling, discovery activities, writing, and recreation. Job Requirements

Minimum 21 years of age or hold a Bachelor’s Degree

At least 24 weeks of youth camping, or comparable experience

Experience leading youth and a passion for working with kids.

Basic CPR Certification from American Red Cross or American Heart Association prior to camp start date (life guard certification is a plus)

Valid Driver's License.

High levels of organization, communication, and judgment.

A self-starter that can work independently and lead a team

Experience with a diverse population, specially at-risk youth

County registration requires all camp staff to authorize a background check.

Job Responsibilities Include

The Director will need to monitor and update the camp registration with the county, including interfacing with the camp nurse/health director

Leading a team of camp counselors

Organizing weekly field trips

Maintaining registration and enrollment records

Responsible for transporting daily materials to the site.

The salary is commensurate with experience and includes time for preparation and wrap up as well as the program itselfApplication Process: SCM will review applications continuously until the position is filled, so early application is encouraged. SCM will acknowledge applications from individuals we plan to interview. SCM is an affirmative action employer. To apply send a cover letter, salary requirements, and resume to: Camp Director Search, SCM, 1055 Wendell avenue, Schenectady, NY 12308; or email: information@sicm.us
Job Type: Temporary
Revised: January 15, 2018

2018 Summer Internship Program Overview

The purpose of the SCM internship is to offer students experience working in the various SCM or related programs. The internships enhance the experience of students, especially those interested in considering or pursuing human services, social welfare, education, faith-based, non- profit, and/or public health careers. SCM’s hiring priorities are: 1) older college students with experience; 2) college students; 3) high school students going into college.

SCM summer interns are paid and work during the summer for 6 to 10 weeks; either full time (240 hours) or part time are available. The pay rate is above minimum and SCM provides reimbursement for mileage used as part of the internship.

Congregations support a number of positions and in some cases placement for the positions is limited to those described. However, internships are also available for those not related to or sponsored by a congregation.

All applicants should indicate their preference of placement. SCM program staff will interview students and determine final placements of interns. Application Deadline: April 30 or until positions are filled.

Required: (1) participating in regular group meetings to share knowledge and reflect on their experience; (2) submitting two written pieces at the conclusion of their internship, reflecting on their summer; (3) securing prior permission for any time away – the placements count on the intern and time away also limits the value of the internship.

Sponsorship: A number of interns are supported by SICM congregations. Students are welcome to seek other sponsorship sources; please contact the SCM office

Applications are available at the office or on the website, under About Us, Employment Opportunities, and Internship Program. For further information, contact information@sicm.us.

2018 Summer Intern Position Descriptions

These position descriptions are for the intern’s primary work area; all interns participate in various special events as needed, as well as regularly scheduled meetings with the intern coordinator. All interns participate in meetings to reflect on the experience and submit written work at the conclusion of the internship.

Food Program—Provides emergency groceries at the largest food pantry in Schenectady County. Summer interns will assist in all phases of the food pantry operation (greet, intake, sort, re-package, stock, lift, distribute) when the food pantry is open and/or will assist with volunteer support and recognition projects, administrative tasks, and potential special projects. One potential special project is to interview guests to provide stories showing “The Face of Hunger.”

Summer Meals Reading/Activities Program—Interns will participate in a reading/activities program with children at sites of Summer Meal distribution, reading to and engaging students with books provided by SCM. This activity will be at larger sites where there are no other activities.

Summer Camp Counselor—SCM sponsors an urban camp for a 6-week (in July-August a day camp) for elementary school-age children. SCM is coordinating it in conjunction with Camp Fowler. The Counselor to Child ratio is 1:4 within the overall curriculum, which is an inclusive, Christian one that revolves around nature and creation themes. Counselors work under a Camp Director in a team setting; accompanies youth on one field trip weekly. Activities may include a gardening component – preparing, tending, etc., crafts, music, games and more. Training will be held several days in June at Camp Fowler in Speculator. *Interns MUST commit to all six weeks of the program.*

Summer Meals Site Supervisor—SCM sponsors summer meals (breakfast and lunch) for youth out of school. Interns work with the Summer Meals staff to provide, distribute, and monitor food at various sites, and possibly mobile sites.

Home Furnishings Program—Supplies household furnishings (through donations) in excellent useable condition to people and families in need residing in Schenectady County. Interns may assemble various types of furniture and will load delivery trucks, carry heavy loads, sort through donations, unload delivery trucks; administrative office help, and potential special projects.

Transportation: SCM does not provide transportation and count on the intern getting to and from work sites. While not a requirement, having a valid drivers’ license and access to transportation is a plus.